Cardiac Rehabilitation
drramjimehrotra Blog

What is Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a structured and medically supervised program designed to help individuals recover from various heart-related conditions and improve their cardiovascular health. The primary focus of cardiac rehabilitation is to enhance the overall well-being of individuals who have experienced a heart attack, undergone heart surgery, or are living with conditions such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or angina.

The core components of cardiac rehabilitation typically include:

  • Medical Assessment: Before starting a cardiac rehabilitation program, individuals undergo a thorough medical assessment to evaluate their current health status, identify risk factors, and create a personalized plan for rehabilitation.
  • Exercise Training: Regular, supervised exercise sessions are a fundamental aspect of cardiac rehabilitation. These sessions aim to improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and strength. Exercise programs are tailored to the individual’s health status, ensuring safety and gradual progression.
  • Education: Patients receive education on heart health, risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and self-management strategies. This includes information on nutrition, medication management, and stress reduction to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
  • Behavioral Counseling: Psychosocial support is provided to address the emotional and psychological aspects of living with heart disease. Counseling may cover stress management, coping strategies, and mental health support.
  • Nutritional Counseling: Dietary guidance is offered to help individuals adopt heart-healthy eating habits. This may involve managing weight, reducing sodium intake, and making nutritious food choices to control factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Risk Factor Modification: Cardiac rehabilitation emphasizes lifestyle changes to address and modify risk factors associated with heart disease. This includes smoking cessation, weight management, and strategies to control conditions like diabetes.
  • Medication Management: Education and support are provided to help individuals understand and manage their medications effectively. This includes information on medication adherence and potential side effects.
  • Monitoring and Follow-up: Regular monitoring of progress and follow-up assessments are conducted to track improvements and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed. Follow-up care is essential to maintain and reinforce positive lifestyle changes.

According to Dr. Ramji Mehrotra, Cardiac rehabilitation is typically conducted in a specialized outpatient setting, and programs may vary in duration (typically lasting several weeks to a few months). The involvement of a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, exercise physiologists, dietitians, and psychologists, ensures a comprehensive approach to care.

Participation in cardiac rehabilitation has been associated with numerous benefits, including improved exercise capacity, reduced symptoms, lower rates of hospitalization, and enhanced quality of life for individuals with cardiovascular diseases. It plays a crucial role in the continuum of care for those recovering from heart events or managing chronic heart conditions.

Aging and Heart Disease
drramjimehrotra Blog

Aging and Heart Disease

Aging and Heart Disease are interconnected in several ways. As individuals age, their chances of developing heart disease increase. Aging is associated with various physiological changes that can affect the cardiovascular system. Here are some key points to consider regarding heart disease and aging:

Atherosclerosis: Aging often leads to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup can narrow and stiffen the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and increasing the risk of heart disease.

Blood Vessel Changes: With aging, blood vessels may become less flexible and more prone to stiffness. This can contribute to high blood pressure (hypertension), which is a significant risk factor for heart disease.

Heart Muscle Changes: The heart undergoes changes with age, including a gradual thickening of the heart walls and a decrease in the elasticity of the heart chambers. These changes may affect the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently.

Collagen Accumulation: Collagen, a protein that provides structure to various tissues, accumulates in the heart with age. This can contribute to the stiffening of the heart muscle and impaired cardiac function.

Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is associated with aging and is also a factor in the development of heart disease. Inflammatory processes can contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular issues.

Metabolic Changes: Changes in metabolism, such as alterations in lipid (fat) profiles and glucose metabolism, are common with aging. These changes can influence the development of conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome, which are risk factors for heart disease.

Genetic and Environmental Factors: Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of heart disease. Aging individuals may have a combination of genetic predispositions and a lifetime of exposure to various risk factors, such as a poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially in postmenopausal women, can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. Estrogen, which has cardioprotective effects, decreases with age and menopause.

Lifestyle Factors: Healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking, can help mitigate the risk of heart disease even as individuals age.

Medical Monitoring and Management: Regular medical check-ups and monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors are crucial, especially as people age. Timely intervention and management of risk factors can help prevent or delay the onset of heart disease.

It’s important to note that while aging is a non-modifiable risk factor, adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing other risk factors can significantly influence heart health and reduce the impact of age-related changes on the cardiovascular system. Regular consultation with healthcare professionals is essential for monitoring and managing cardiovascular health, especially in older individuals.

Congenital Heart Disease in Children
drramjimehrotra Blog

Congenital Heart Disease in Children

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a group of structural heart defects present at birth, affecting millions of children worldwide. These anomalies range from minor issues that may require minimal intervention to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding CHD, its causes, diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll it takes on families is crucial for providing comprehensive care and support.

Causes and Types of CHD

CHD originates during fetal development when the heart does not form correctly. While the exact causes remain unknown in many cases, genetic factors, maternal illnesses, and environmental factors may contribute. There are various types of CHD, classified into two main categories: cyanotic and acyanotic.

  • Cyanotic CHD: These defects cause decreased oxygen levels in the blood, resulting in bluish skin and lips. Examples include Tetralogy of Fallot and Transposition of the Great Arteries.
  • Acyanotic CHD: These defects do not lead to bluish discoloration but can still be serious. Examples include Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) and Atrial Septal Defect (ASD).

Diagnosis and Screening

CHD is typically diagnosed during pregnancy through routine ultrasounds or shortly after birth when a newborn is screened for congenital anomalies. Early detection is crucial for prompt intervention and better outcomes.

Treatment and Management

The treatment approach for CHD varies depending on the type and severity of the defect. Some children may only require periodic monitoring, while others need surgical or interventional procedures. Advances in medical technology and surgical techniques have greatly improved the outlook for children with CHD.

  1. Medication: Some CHD cases can be managed with medication to control symptoms and improve heart function. For example, diuretics may help remove excess fluid buildup, while beta-blockers can regulate heart rate.
  2. Surgery: Surgical intervention is often necessary for complex CHD cases. Surgeons can repair heart defects, replace damaged valves, or even perform heart transplants when required.
  3. Interventional Procedures: Minimally invasive procedures like catheterization can be used to treat certain CHD cases. These procedures involve threading a catheter through blood vessels to repair or correct heart defects.

Psychosocial Impact

CHD not only affects the child but also places a significant emotional and financial burden on families. Parents often experience feelings of guilt, anxiety, and stress. Siblings may feel neglected, and the child with CHD may struggle with self-esteem and body image issues as they grow.

Supportive care, counseling, and access to support groups can help families navigate these challenges. A multidisciplinary approach involving pediatricians, cardiologists, social workers, and psychologists is essential to address both the medical and emotional aspects of CHD.

Long-term Outlook

Advancements in medical science have led to a brighter outlook for children with CHD. Many go on to lead healthy lives with appropriate care and monitoring. However, long-term follow-up is critical to identify and address any potential complications as they grow.

Conclusion

Congenital heart disease in children is a complex and challenging condition that requires comprehensive care and support. Early diagnosis and access to specialized medical care are vital for improving outcomes. Equally important is the emotional and psychosocial support provided to families as they navigate the journey of caring for a child with CHD. With continued research and advancements in medical technology, the future looks promising for children born with these heart defects, offering hope for healthier and happier lives.

Electrical cardioversion
drramjimehrotra Blog

Electrical Cardioversion

Electrical cardioversion is a medical procedure that is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. This procedure involves the delivery of a controlled electric shock to the heart through two large pads or paddles placed on the chest. The shock interrupts the abnormal electrical activity of the heart and allows it to reset to its normal rhythm.

Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias can occur in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) or the lower chambers (ventricles). The most common arrhythmias are atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and supraventricular tachycardia. These arrhythmias can cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, they can also increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications.

Electrical cardioversion procedure

Electrical cardioversion is performed by a trained healthcare provider such as a cardiologist. Before the procedure, the patient is given medications to reduce the risk of blood clots and to ensure that the heart is in the correct rhythm. The cardiologist then places the pads or paddles on the chest of the patient, and a brief electric shock is delivered to the heart.

The amount of electricity delivered is carefully calibrated to ensure that it is enough to reset the heart’s rhythm without causing any damage to the heart or surrounding tissues. The shock can cause the patient’s muscles to contract, which can sometimes be painful. However, patients are typically given sedation or anaesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Once the heart has been reset to its normal rhythm, the patient is monitored closely for a period of time to ensure that the heart remains stable. In some cases, additional electrical shocks may be needed to maintain the normal rhythm.

Electrical cardioversion is a highly effective procedure for treating certain types of arrhythmias. In many cases, it can restore normal heart function almost immediately. However, the success of the procedure depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the arrhythmia, the duration of the arrhythmia, and the overall health of the patient.

Medical evaluation before electrical cardioversion

Before undergoing electrical cardioversion, patients will usually undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that they are good candidates for the procedure. This evaluation may include blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), a chest X-ray, and other tests as needed. The healthcare provider will also review the patient’s medical history, including any medications or supplements that the patient is taking.

Patients with certain conditions may not be suited for electrical cardioversion. For example, patients with certain types of heart disease, severe lung disease, or a history of blood clots may be at increased risk of complications from the procedure. The doctor will carefully evaluate the patient’s medical history and perform any necessary tests to determine whether electrical cardioversion is safe and appropriate.

Electrical cardioversion is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it can have some risks. The most common side effect is mild skin irritation or burns where the pads or paddles are placed on the chest. These typically heal within a few days.

Patients may also be advised to make certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and losing weight, to reduce the risk of future arrhythmias.

Conclusion

Electrical cardioversion is an effective treatment for certain types of arrhythmias. With proper care and follow-up, many patients can expect to have improved heart function and reduced risk of future arrhythmias.

Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect
drramjimehrotra Blog

Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect (CAVC)

Complete atrioventricular canal defect (CAVC) is a rare congenital heart condition that occurs when there is a hole in the centre of the heart that affects the atria and ventricles. This condition is also known as an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), and it can cause a range of serious health problems if left untreated.

In a normal heart, there is a wall (septum) between the two atria and another wall between the two ventricles. These walls prevent the mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. In CAVC, these walls are missing, and a large hole exists between the atria and ventricles. As a result, oxygen-rich blood mixes with oxygen-poor blood, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the body and heart failure over time.

Diagnosis of CAVC

CAVC is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Infants with CAVC may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, and feeding difficulties. In some cases, babies with CAVC may also have low oxygen levels, which can cause a bluish tint to the skin (cyanosis).

The diagnosis of CAVC is usually confirmed through diagnostic tests such as an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. Other tests that may be performed include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity and a chest X-ray to check for signs of heart enlargement.

Treatment

Treatment for CAVC usually involves surgery to close the hole in the heart and reconstruct the affected valves. This type of surgery is typically done in early infancy or early childhood, depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as heart failure or to prevent complications such as infection.

Long-term outlook

The long-term outlook for children with CAVC depends on the severity of the defect and the timing of treatment. In general, children who receive timely and appropriate treatment have a good prognosis and can live normal, healthy lives. However, in severe cases, CAVC can lead to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other serious complications.

In addition to medical treatment, children with CAVC may require ongoing monitoring and care throughout their lives. This may include regular check-ups with a pediatric cardiologist, medication management, and follow-up diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms.

Conclusion

Complete atrioventricular canal defect is a rare but serious congenital heart condition that affects the atria and ventricles of the heart. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing the condition and preventing complications. If you suspect your child may have CAVC, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure the best possible outcome.

Positron Emission Tomography
drramjimehrotra Blog

How Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan Works?

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique that produces detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

What is a PET scan?

A PET scan is a type of medical imaging that uses a small amount of a radioactive substance, called a tracer, to produce images of the inside of the body. The tracer is injected into the body, swallowed, or inhaled, and then detected by a PET scanner. The PET scanner is a large machine that contains a ring of detectors that can detect the radiation emitted by the tracer.

How does a PET scan work?

The tracer used in a PET scan is typically a compound that contains a small amount of a radioactive substance, such as fluorine-18 or carbon-11. These radioactive substances emit positrons, which are positively charged particles that are the opposite of electrons. When a positron encounters an electron in the body, they annihilate each other and emit two gamma rays in opposite directions.

The PET scanner detects the gamma rays and uses them to create a three-dimensional image of the area being scanned. The scanner can detect the gamma rays from multiple angles, which allows it to create a detailed image of the area.

What happens during a PET scan?

Before the PET scan, the patient is injected with the tracer. The tracer is typically injected into a vein in the arm, but it can also be swallowed or inhaled, depending on the type of scan being done.

After the tracer is injected, the patient is asked to rest for a period of time to allow the tracer to circulate through the body. The amount of time the patient needs to rest depends on the type of scan being done and the tracer being used.

Once the tracer has circulated through the body, the patient is taken to the PET scanner. The scanner is a large machine with a narrow table that slides in and out of the machine.

The patient lies on the table, and the scanner is positioned over the area being scanned. The patient needs to remain still during the scan to ensure the images are clear.

The scanner emits a small amount of radiation to detect the tracer in the body. The patient will not feel anything during the scan, but they may hear a clicking or buzzing sound coming from the machine.

After the scan is complete, the patient can go home. The amount of radiation in the tracer is small, and it typically does not pose a health risk.

What are the uses of PET scans?

PET scans are used to diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions, including:

  1. Cancer: PET scans can help to diagnose cancer and determine the extent of the disease. They can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy.
  2. Heart disease: PET scans can be used to diagnose heart disease and determine the extent of damage to the heart muscle. They can also be used to assess blood flow to the heart and to determine the effectiveness of treatments, such as angioplasty.
  3. Neurological disorders: PET scans can be used to diagnose and monitor neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy.
  4. Mental health disorders: PET scans can be used to study the brain and to diagnose and monitor mental health disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia.
Vasculitis
drramjimehrotra Blog

What is Vasculitis?

Vasculitis is a medical condition that affects the blood vessels in the body, leading to inflammation and damage to these vital structures. The blood vessels affected by vasculitis can range from small capillaries to larger arteries, depending on the type of vasculitis. This damage to the blood vessels can cause a range of symptoms and health problems, including impaired blood flow, organ damage, and increased risk of infections and bleeding.

Types of Vasculitis

There are several different types of vasculitis, each with its own unique causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Some of the most common types of vasculitis include giant cell arteritis, Takayasu’s arteritis, and Wegener’s granulomatosis. These diseases can affect people of all ages, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to certain medications or chemicals.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vasculitis can vary widely, depending on the type and severity of the disease, as well as the location of the affected blood vessels. Some common symptoms of vasculitis include fever, fatigue, weight loss, joint pain, skin rashes, and sores that do not heal. In severe cases, vasculitis can also cause organ damage, such as kidney failure, heart attack, or stroke.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing vasculitis can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to other diseases and conditions. The process usually involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for vasculitis depends on the type and severity of the disease, as well as the age and overall health of the patient. In many cases, treatment involves a combination of medications, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the blood vessels. These medications can be taken orally or intravenously, and may need to be taken for an extended period of time.

In severe cases of vasculitis, treatment may also involve other interventions, such as stents, surgery or radiation therapy. For example, if the vasculitis is causing a blockage in a major blood vessel, such as the aorta, surgery may be necessary to remove the blockage and restore normal blood flow.

Living with vasculitis

Living with vasculitis can be challenging, but with proper treatment and care, many people are able to manage their symptoms and lead healthy lives. It is important to consult a specialist and monitor your symptoms and medical condition regularly. This may include regular blood tests, imaging studies, and physical exams, as well as lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise.

Conclusion

Vasculitis is a group of rare diseases characterized by inflammation and damage to the blood vessels in the body. The symptoms and treatment options can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the disease, but with proper care and management, many people are able to live active, healthy lives.

Coronary Microvascular Disease
drramjimehrotra Blog

Coronary Microvascular Disease (CMD)

Coronary microvascular disease (CMD) is a condition that affects the small blood vessels in the heart. It is a common cause of chest pain and can also lead to heart failure. While CMD is often overlooked, it is a serious condition that can have significant consequences for people who have it.

How is CMD Caused?

CMD is caused by a blockage or damage to the small blood vessels in the heart, which can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. It can also lead to heart failure, in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

CMD is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions such as angina or heart attack. In addition, traditional tests such as angiography may not be able to detect the blockages or damage in the small blood vessels. As a result, CMD may be misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed for some time.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for CMD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. It is also more common in women and people with a family history of heart disease. These risk factors can damage the small blood vessels in the heart and lead to CMD.

Treatment of CMD

The good news is that CMD is a treatable condition. The first step in treatment is to manage any underlying risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. This may involve lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking. In some cases, medications may be necessary to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and improve blood flow to the heart.

In addition to managing risk factors, it is important to address any symptoms of CMD. This may involve the use of medications to manage chest pain and improve blood flow to the heart. In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty or stenting may be necessary to open blocked blood vessels.

It is important to regularly consult with the specialist who can develop a treatment plan to manage CMD. This may include regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. By taking steps to manage CMD, patients can reduce their risk of heart failure and other serious complications.

Conclusion

CMD is a serious condition that affects the small blood vessels in the heart. It can cause chest pain and lead to heart failure if left untreated. Risk factors for CMD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes and medications, and in some cases, procedures to open blocked blood vessels.

Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
drramjimehrotra Blog

What is Pulmonary Valve Stenosis?

Pulmonary valve stenosis is a medical condition in which the pulmonary valve, which regulates blood flow from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs, becomes narrowed or obstructed. This can lead to difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen levels in the blood, causing a range of symptoms and potentially serious health complications if left untreated.

Causes of Pulmonary Valve Stenosis

There are several potential causes of pulmonary valve stenosis. One common cause is congenital heart defects, which are present at birth and may be inherited or caused by environmental factors during pregnancy. Rheumatic fever, a condition that can develop as a complication of strep throat, can also lead to pulmonary valve stenosis. In rare cases, the valve may become narrowed or obstructed due to scarring or inflammation. In some cases, the cause of the stenosis is unknown.

Symptoms

Symptoms of pulmonary valve stenosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, individuals may not experience any symptoms or may only have mild shortness of breath during physical activity. More severe cases may cause significant difficulty breathing, chest pain, fatigue, and fainting. In severe cases, the condition can also cause heart palpitations, swelling in the legs and ankles, and a bluish tint to the skin due to low oxygen levels.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of pulmonary valve stenosis typically begins with a physical exam and a review of the individual’s medical history. The doctor may also order several tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition. These tests may include an echocardiogram, a chest X-ray, and an electrocardiogram.

There are several treatment options available for pulmonary valve stenosis, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s overall health. In mild cases, treatment may include medications to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. These may include diuretics to reduce fluid build-up in the body and beta blockers to reduce the heart’s workload.

For more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the valve. Repair surgery involves making changes to the existing valve to improve its function, while valve replacement surgery involves replacing the faulty valve with a new one. There are several different types of valves that can be used in replacement surgery, including mechanical valves, which are made of man-made materials, and biological valves, which are made from animal tissue.

In some cases, a procedure called balloon valvuloplasty may be used to widen the narrowed valve. This procedure involves inserting a balloon catheter into the narrowed valve and inflating the balloon to widen the opening.

It is important for patients with pulmonary valve stenosis to work closely with their doctors to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications. This may include regular check-ups and monitoring of symptoms, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet, and taking prescribed medications as directed.

Conclusion

Pulmonary valve stenosis is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. With proper treatment and management, however, it is possible to live a full and active life. It is important for individuals with the condition to stay in close communication with their doctors and follow their treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcomes.

drramjimehrotra Blog

Women and Heart Disease

It is generally considered that heart disease affects men more than women. However, coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women, though the symptoms may be different for both. According to research, cardiovascular disease accounts for 1 in every 3 deaths around the world.

Women and men experience heart disease differently due to the differences in the respective cardiovascular system. For example, women have smaller heart chambers and blood vessels than men. They have lesser number of red blood cells and cannot take in as much oxygen as men. Sudden drop in blood pressure and fainting are more likely in women.

Oestrogen and progesterone hormones are dominant in women, while in men it is the testosterone hormone. These also impact heart health differently.

Identification of heart disease in women

In women symptoms of cardiovascular disease are generally noticed much later than in men. The most common symptom is chest pain or angina which may feel like heaviness, pressure, aching, numbness, squeezing, etc. 

Other symptoms usually observed include fatigue, breathlessness, heart palpitations, nausea, sudden sweating, etc. Anxiety, loss of appetite, frequent indigestion, intense headache and discomfort in the jaws or teeth, are other warning signs of a possible heart attack.

Women are also at higher risk for having a silent heart attack, that is an attack without any visible symptoms.

Hence, it is very essential to get medical help whenever any unusual symptoms are noticed to prevent the chances of heart attack.

Risk factors for heart disease in women

While risk factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure affect both men and women, women face certain unique risks that affect them more. These include the following:

  • Obesity: During menopause women face greater risk of obesity and gaining abdominal fat which puts them at higher risk of heart disease.
  • High cholesterol: In women aged 65 and above, low level of HDL or good cholesterol is closely linked with death, more than in men.
  • Diabetes: Women with diabetes have a much greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease than men with diabetes.
  • Hypertension: Hypertension or high blood pressure has been found to be linked more closely with heart attacks in women than in men.
  • Family history: Instances of early heart disease in the family cause greater risk to women than men.  

Reducing the risk of heart disease

According to Dr. Ramji Mehrotra, it is very important to adopt a healthy lifestyle in order to reduce the risk of heart disease. A healthy diet with whole grains, vegetables and fruits must be consumed. Saturated fats and high amounts of salt and sugar must be avoided to maintain good health.

Regular exercise is a must, especially for women who are overweight, in order to reduce the risk of heart disease. Stress must be kept under control with meditation and yoga, as high levels of stress have been found to cause microvascular disease.

In addition, other health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol should be managed by regular consultations with the medical practitioners.

By following the above guidelines, heart disease can be prevented in women and they can lead healthy lives.

Posts navigation

1 2